Java and Cookies in Internet Explorer 7

Some web sites (e.g., Desire2Learn) require Java and cookies to be enabled. If you are having problems displaying web site content, one of the first things you should do is check your Java and cookies settings. This document explains how to customize settings for Java and cookies in Internet Explorer 7.

• Customizing Cookies
• Customizing Java
• Returning to the Default Settings

Customizing Cookies

Cookies are invisible text messages used by web sites to identify your computer or to determine whether or not you have logged into an account. First-party cookies are used by primary web sites (i.e., web sites you intentionally view) to recognize your computer when you return and can help a page load faster. Third-party cookies are often used by advertisers to track your Web browsing.

1. Open Internet Explorer

2. From the Command Bar, click TOOLS» select Internet Options
   The Internet Options dialog box appears.

3. Select the Privacy tab
   NOTE: If you are working on a network computer (e.g., Campus Network computers), certain Privacy settings cannot be changed.

4. In the Settings section, click ADVANCED
   The Advanced Privacy Settings dialog box appears.

5. In the Cookies section, select Override automatic cookie handling
   

6. Under First-party Cookies, select the appropriate option
   NOTE: First-party cookies can save page load time and ensure web site functionality. By blocking first-party cookies, previously viewed web sites will not be able to identify you when you return; it may take longer for those pages to load, and in some cases the web site will not function properly.

7. Under Third-party Cookies, select the appropriate option
   NOTE: Blocking third-party cookies prevents advertisers from tracking your browsing history.

8. To allow session cookies, select Always allow session cookies
   NOTE: Session cookies are non-persistent (i.e., temporary) first-party and third-party cookies. If you have chosen to block third-party cookies to prevent your browsing history from being tracked, you should leave Always allow session cookies deselected.

9. Click OK

10. When finished, click OK

Customizing Java

Java is an advanced programming environment that allows you to run additional software inside your web browser. For example, Desire2Learn runs with Java. If you are having problems with this feature, one of the first things you should do is check your settings.

1. Open Internet Explorer

2. From the Command Bar, click TOOLS» select Internet Options
   The Internet Options dialog box appears.

3. Select the Security tab

4. In the Security level for this zone section, click CUSTOM LEVEL...
   The Security Settings dialog box appears.

5. Using the scroll bar, locate Scripting: Scripting of Java Applets
   

6. Under Scripting of Java Applets, select the appropriate option
   NOTE: Java applets are mini programs used to enhance web pages. They are often implemented by the main web page, but are also used by advertisers on a web page.

7. Click OK
   A confirmation dialog box appears.

8. To confirm the new settings, click OK
   Your changes are saved.

Returning to the Default Settings

By default, Internet Explorer will block third-party cookies that do not have the right to see your web information without your consent, so that your information is only available to first-party (i.e., current) web pages.

1. Open Internet Explorer

2. From the Tools  menu, select Internet Options
   The Internet Options dialog box appears.

3. Select the Security tab

4. To return to the default settings, click DEFAULT LEVEL

5. Click OK  
   The default settings are restored.

This document is based on and developed from information published in the LTS Online Help Collection (www.uwec.edu/help) developed by the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and copyrighted by the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents. Used by permission.